The vibrant and colourful procession at the heart of the Lord Mayor's Weekend is starting to take shape - and will follow a new route.

Norwich City Council is organising this year's event for the weekend of July 13 and 14.

Now a call has been issued for schools, community groups, charities and businesses to get involved in the carnival fun for free, as participation fees have been removed.

Clare Hubery, leisure and cultural services manager at City Hall, said: “Our events team is pulling out the stops to make this year’s Lord Mayor’s Weekend better and brighter than ever, with a fresh look and direction.”

This year's theme is “Norwich Loves You” and will focus on ensuring everyone feels safe and welcomed in the community.  

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Ms Hubery added: "This fantastic free event is not only a landmark fixture in our annual civic calendar stretching back to medieval times, but more importantly an opportunity for all our citizens and visitors to the city, and particularly young people, to have an amazing day out for free."

Eastern Daily Press: Pinoy in Norwich Aksiong Samahan (Pinas) were named the top display of last year's Lord Mayor's processionPinoy in Norwich Aksiong Samahan (Pinas) were named the top display of last year's Lord Mayor's procession (Image: Sonya Duncan/Newsquest)

The procession will start at the cathedral then move on to St Andrews Street, Exchange Street and Gentleman’s Walk before turning towards Chapelfield Gardens.

The park will host live music and dance acts throughout Saturday, along with food and drink stalls, a carousel and a big wheel. 

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There will also be live music events headlined by Foo Fighters tribute act UK Foo Fighters. and Voodoo Daddy’s Showroom, in London Street with some of the best bands in Norwich. 

The grand finale is on Sunday as the Great Norwich Duck Race starts from Lady Julian Bridge at 2.30pm.

Eastern Daily Press: The Lord Mayor's procession returns to Norwich on Saturday, July 13 this yearThe Lord Mayor's procession returns to Norwich on Saturday, July 13 this year (Image: Sonya Duncan/Newsquest)

The money made from the event will be given to participating Scout groups and projects, as well as the mayor’s chosen charity East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices with £1,000 in prizes up for grabs.

To apply for the parade, go to norwich.gov.uk/lmw.